Brixham Breakwater
The historic fishing port of Brixham can be found on the western side of Torbay. The huge harbour here covers 108 acres and is home to numerous vessels from a still large working fishing fleet. Protecting this expanse of water and the vessels which call it home is the massive structure of Brixham Breakwater. Stretching for half a mile into Torbay the Breakwater is a fantastic fishing platform. The first stone in the Breakwater’s construction was laid in 1843 and the original structure stretched to 1400 feet in length until work ceased because of a lack of funds. Over the years more structure was added until the Breakwater reached its full length in 1916. Throughout the summer Brixham, like the other Torbay towns, is a major tourist attraction. Unlike other fishing locations the Breakwater is sufficiently long to mean that finding a space to while away the hours with some good sport is never really an issue.
The Breakwater offers fantastic fishing for a massive range of species. It is possible to fish both the seaward side and into the harbour. The seaward side offers fishing over mixed ground. Close to the Breakwater the bottom is very rocky with large patches of kelp in places ideal for catching wrasse and various mini-species during the day and some very large conger eels after dark. In general the rocks and kelp extend for 30-60 yards and a cast past this distance will see your baits landing on sandy ground. If you fish onto the clean ground and you have the chance of catching virtually anything. Fishing on the inside of the harbour is a top place to cast a float of do a bit of light spinning for mackerel, garfish, bass, Pollack and mullet. If you chose to fish be aware that this is an area for boats to pass in and out of the harbour and for them to moor up. Boats have the right of way and ensure you aren’t casting when they are passing and reel in your gear to allow them to pass. Bottom fishing on this side should be done close to the rocks to avoid boat traffic but can be excellent for wrasse and conger eels. In the same vein if you chose to fish from the very end of the breakwater out to sea this is the main channel for all vessels to pass in and out of the harbour, be mindful of passing traffic. The Breakwater is a top venue for anglers of all abilities and a flat run from the car park, save for a small slope, means that it is a good place for disabled anglers as the wall is low for the first quarter of its length. Be careful though as there are no railings on either side of the breakwater and it is a long drop down to the water. This is a great place for beginners as casting distance isn’t necessary, it is a firm, flat platform to fish from and fish are there to catch both day and night. Be mindful of passers by walking along the structure when casting your gear out, it is a popular place for people to take a stroll.
Likely Species
Bass, Various species of wrasse, Mini-species such as blennies, Whiting, Poor Cod, Pout, Mackerel, Garfish, Scad, Conger Eel, Mullet, Gurnard
Chance of Catching
Flounder, Dab, Plaice, Cod, Huss, Black Bream, Red Mullet
Best Baits
Ragworm is the top all round bait for the majority of species. Large fish baits will work for the conger eels. Mackerel Strips under a sliding float for the mackerel, garfish, scad and Pollack. Spinning and plugs also work very well.
Rigs
2/3 hook flappers for the smaller species, use size 1 or 2 hooks. A heavy duty pennel or pulley with 6/0 or bigger should be used if you wish to target the larger species.
Directions
Following the A380 which then becomes the A3022 into Brixham you will come across the Bolton Arms PH at a set of traffic lights where you need to go left. Follow the road marked “Harbour” until you happen upon another junction where you need to turn right. Follow the road alongside the harbour and head for Shoalstone. You’ll need to go straight over the roundabout and you’ll find the breakwater on your left some 500yds further.
For sat nav users use TQ5 9AF for your reference.
Dangers
Some very big seas smash over the breakwater from time to time, NEVER venture onto the structure in such conditions. No railings. A long drop to the water on the seaward side. Other anglers not paying attention when casting.
